For the woman who has a husband is bound by the law to her husband as long as he lives. But if the husband dies, she is released from the law of her husband. Romans 7:2

In his ever-consistent writings, Paul confirms his words in this verse in another verse found in 1 Corinthians 7:39 –

“A wife is bound by law as long as her husband lives; but if her husband dies, she is at liberty to be married to whom she wishes, only in the Lord.”

This is an obvious truth. The marriage of a woman to a man binds her to that husband. He is the head of the family, both under the law and also within the New Testament context (Ephesians 5:23 for example). Being bound to that husband means that she has vowed to perform her duties as a wife and be faithful to him. However, the death of the husband releases her from his headship; she is no longer bound to him.

This simple example of the husband/wife relationship will be used in order to demonstrate a truth concerning our relationship to the law. The Bible uses such simple examples to keep us from mistaking deeper theological truths. Unfortunately, even such simplicity is often overlooked or ignored in an attempt to continue on down improper paths of our relationship with Christ. Endeavor to not be swayed by those who would follow such avenues of disobedience.

Life application: When an object lesson is given in the Bible, it is done so that we can see easy-to-understand concepts of issues that are often complex or which could otherwise lead to heresy if ignored. Pay close attention to such simplicity because it will guide you as you wade into deeper theological waters.

Lord God, I cherish Your word and I truly want to be obedient to it. When there are things I don’t understand contained there, please direct me to proper instruction on those matters and keep me away from those analyses which are incorrect. I trust that You will lead me on the right path of instruction so that my doctrine will be pure and You will be glorified through my walk. Amen.